Drafted in the second round by the Dolphins in 1975, Solomon played his final eight seasons in San Francisco after he was traded to the 49ers following the 1977 season. He ranks fourth in franchise history in yards per reception (15.7) and is tied for sixth with 43 touchdowns catches. He also ranks eighth in receiving yards (4,873) and 10th in receptions (310).

Solomon’s NFL career was bookended by his accomplishments, on and off the field, in Tampa. A quarterback at the University of Tampa, he finished 12th in the Heisman Trophy voting as a senior on an obscure 6-5 team. He left college with 3,299 rushing yards, then first in NCAA history among quarterbacks.

After his playing days, he devoted himself to community service in Tampa. He worked with youths for 20 years through a program with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. He also teamed with former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo, a Tampa resident and close friend, on an annual Christmas celebration for foster children.